Do’s and Don'ts After Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition that occurs when the natural lens of your eyes becomes less transparent or cloudy. Initially, you may not experience so much impact from the cataract. But with time, it starts having a significant effect on your eyesight.

Cataracts can affect your ability to do your daily tasks with ease. With time, the quality of your vision will get worse. Fortunately, cataract surgery can help restore your clear sight. The procedure is safe and painless. Ideally, you should know what to do after cataract surgery. Read more to find out the do’s and don'ts.

Do Avoid Straining Your Eyes in the Early Phases After the Procedure

Your vision is likely to improve immediately after the surgery, encouraging you to resume your usual activities immediately. However, it is ideal to avoid strenuous activities so that you do not strain your eyes and slow the healing process. Take it easy during the first phase following your treatment.

Do Follow the Given Instructions When Using Your Eye Drops

Your surgeon will prescribe anti-inflammatory or antibiotic eye drops to use after surgery. They help prevent inflammation and infection. Ideally, you should follow the instructions for using the eye drops to ensure optimum recovery.

Do Go for All Follow-up Appointments

Treatment is not complete after surgery. You will still need to go for aftercare appointments. Your doctor will assess your progress and recommend further visits until you heal completely.

Do Take Pain Medication If Needed

You may experience some mild discomfort during the early healing phase after treatment. However, it will reduce as you continue recovering. Some over-the-counter pain medication may help make your recovery more comfortable.

Do Wear Protective Eyewear

Use protective eyewear during the early phase after treatment to ensure a successful recovery. Wearing protective shields or goggles will prevent eye rubbing at night as you sleep. Your specialist will give you in-depth directions on how to protect your eyes.

Do Not Expose Your Eyes to Irritants 

Your eyes will become more sensitive after cataract surgery. Therefore, avoid potential irritants such as pollen and dust. Your doctor will also discourage gardening and dusting for the first few weeks after your surgery. They will recommend wearing eye protection if you will not manage to avoid the irritants.

Do Not Use Hot Tubs, Swimming Pools, or Saunas

Water carries bacteria that can harm your eyes. Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and pools to reduce the risk of hurting your eyes. Swimming is also discouraged as it is a strenuous activity you may need to avoid following your surgery.

Do Not Wear Eye Makeup for the First Week

Avoid wearing eye makeup for the first week after surgery to speed up your recovery. Makeup particles can increase your chances of infection as they can irritate.

Do Not Drive Yourself Back Home

Avoid any strenuous activity like driving immediately after your cataract surgery. Ideally, arrange to have someone take you back home and ensure you remain comfortable once you arrive.

Several factors determine how long you will need to resume driving. Once your vision starts improving, you can get back on the wheel. Your optometrist will advise you during your aftercare appointments.

Do Not Rub Your Eyes

You can negatively impact your healing if you rub your eyes vigorously. Doing so can transfer bacteria into your eyes and cause eye infections. Additionally, extensive rubbing of the eyes can exert pressure that can cause damage to your cornea. As a result, it can affect the healing process.

You are likely to feel some eye discomfort during the early phases of the procedure. However, refrain from the urge to rub or touch your eyes so that you can heal faster.

To learn more about cataract surgery, call Advanced Vision Institute at (702) 819-9800 to reach our office in Las Vegas, Nevada.